Introducing the C.O.R.E. Guide
(formerly the Communities of Excellence Framework)
For nearly a decade, the Communities of Excellence Framework has guided community leaders in improving quality of life across the nation.
Building on that foundation, we’re proud to introduce the C.O.R.E. Guide—an updated, systems-based approach designed to help communities align efforts, accelerate results, and strengthen resilience.
The C.O.R.E. Guide provides a practical roadmap for improving the conditions where people live, learn, work, and play. It connects strategy to impact, helping communities organize around shared goals, use data effectively, and make measurable progress together.
Whether you’re just getting started or deep into your community’s journey, the C.O.R.E. Guide gives you the structure and tools to:
- Build collaboration across sectors
- Focus on what matters most to residents
- Use data to guide decisions and demonstrate results
- Drive sustainable improvement over time
The C.O.R.E. Guide is available in two formats—as a digital download (PDF) or a professionally printed book—so you can choose what works best for your team.
(The C.O.R.E. Guide replaces the Communities of Excellence Framework and reflects the evolution of our national learning model into Communities of Resilience & Excellence.)
